Today we’d like to introduce you to Ariel Williams.
Ariel, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
My business really began as a good gesture for a friend in need. One of my best friend’s house had burned down and I wanted to make her care package. I created her a basket filled with everyday household items and food. She was so thankful and me knowing that I was able to make her smile during a tragic time made me smile on the inside. Over the next few months, I started making care packages for the homeless. I would keep them in my car, so every time I would pass a person in need, I would stop and give them a basket filled with everyday items we would normally take for granted.
After that, I decided to create gift baskets as a business, for extra income. I was doing great! GOD then planted a seed in me. He told me to include the ones I love. I reached out to a few of my family members who are also talented and creative. I asked them if they wanted to sell our items in front of my mother’s house on a corner. They all agreed. We sold out on our first Valentine’s Day weekend. So we continued for the upcoming holidays. They were all successful.
Six months later, GOD made it possible for us to open the doors of FillABasket Gift Shop! We now have a business that supports all of my family’s dreams.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
This has not been an easy road at all. Having my own business yet sharing it with the family has its struggles. But at the end of it all, we always have each other’s best interests and have learned to separate business and personal. Also, because my business is run completely out of pocket with no loans or grants has also been a hard hit. Yet, GOD has given everything we need and continues to bless us.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
FillABasket and More Gift Shop is a black-owned business. We are truly a one stop shop. We create custom gift baskets, custom T-shirts, jewelry, crotchet items, treats, artwork, floral bouquets and so much more. We also have a venue attached to our store in which we use to rent out for events. Not to mention, we host our own monthly pop-up shops and invite other small Black business owners to showcase their businesses. FillABasket also provides photography by Foster Photography Group. We are a very unique business that caters to our community in multiple ways.
Can you talk to us about how you think about risk?
I believe in positive risk taking. It all starts with just believing in yourself. If you have an idea, pray about it first. Ask GOD to walk with you through your journey. Me starting this business on a whim was a huge risk for me. The fact that I was taking money from my household to invest in a dream is something I normally wouldn’t have done. But I continue to have faith that GOD will get me through it.
Contact Info:
- Website: Fill-a-basket-more-llc.square.site
- Facebook: www.m.facebook.com/Fill-A-Basket-374816399969317/
Image Credits
Photo credit: Foster Photography Group (feature photo)
